When you think of the Civil War, it is likely that your mind is drawn to a common topic, such as Abraham Lincoln, the Battle of Gettysburg, the Emancipation Proclamation, Sherman’s march through Atlanta, etc.  Yet, beyond the textbook stories of the Civil War, even more intriguing subjects can be found.  Bioterrorism, espionage, gruesome diseases – the Civil War had plenty of soap opera-like drama.  This lesson will focus on such captivating topics, beginning with an interactive warm up in which students learn about the effects of yellow fever during the period of Civil War.  Afterwards, students will begin their exploration of Civil War 
“drama” by reading about bioterrorist plots involving diseases such as yellow fever, as well as other attempts of terrorism during this time.  Students will then work on a group project in which they explore other intriguing aspects of the Civil War through reading and the examination of primary sources.  They will then work with their group to create a creative and educational soap opera that will teach the rest of their classmates about their assigned topic.